Family Time

Food blogger Soni Adriance shares her top spots to take your family, even the embarrassing ones.

No matter your beliefs, the festive season is about family time. It’s a time to reconnect with loved ones and get the larger family together as a whole. It’s also a delicate balance of summer parties and trying to look fresh the next day for family lunch… But that’s a discussion for another time.

When you get the whole family together, there’s always going to be outliers. Everyone has the crazy aunt/uncle, the family member who’s now on a keto/vegan/trend diet or the family member who needs an extensive wine list because they’re now an aspiring sommelier. We know them, we all have them and we have to find a way to please everybody so here are some of my suggestions to navigate this chaos:

Chowpaty

I hadn’t been back to Chowpaty in about 10 years until a special occasion brought me back a few weeks ago. I, as many Kenyans may be, was apprehensive about the vegetarian-only menu. Chowpaty exceeded my expectations, the food was delicious and the casual atmosphere makes for a great place to take your family for a laidback meal. What most may not know is that Chowpaty’s menu features Indian, Chinese and Italian (pizza) dishes. If you go, try out the crackling paneer from the Chinese menu.

Mediterraneo

Each Mediterraneo location has a unique feel and is best suited for different families plus, each location has a unique specials menu. Those with older kids, head to the 9West location and enjoy the modern dining room. The Junction and Gigiri locations are best suited for families with younger kids. The patio at Junction looks out onto the newly refurbished square while the Gigiri branch has lovely garden kids can play in. Order their Pizza Metro for a metre long pizza that you can customize with multiple toppings that everyone will enjoy.

Asmara

At all Asmara locations, there is ample space for kids to run around and play as you wait for your food. Adventurous members of the group can try some delicious Eritrean food while those who are looking for something familiar can enjoy a pizza or salad. Asmara is a great spot to take a family with lots of young kids; the Westlands location has a big garden and the Karen location has a playground.

Talisman

From food to service, Talisman is one of the most consistent restaurants in Nairobi. This festive season, book your table in advance (especially for a large group) and request a table outside. With the idyllic weather, you can enjoy the beautiful outdoors and enjoy classic favourites like feta coriander samosas or the steak served with bhajias. Keep an eye on their social media pages as they’ll probably have a delicious festive specials menu.

Honourable Mentions:

Artcaffe

Artcaffe is a staple for any occasion. With its multiple branches and extensive menu, you’re sure to find something for everyone. Check out the Westgate branch for a menu that’s slightly different from the other branches.

For You

For You is ideal for families with young kids. No matter what day of the week you go you’ll find kids playing in the backyard on the extensive playground at the branch opposite Valley Arcade. Plus, the food is affordable and who doesn’t like a quick and easy Chinese meal?